March and March Leader Demands Urgent Government Action
The shocking murder of Johannesburg DJ and property activist Warrick Stock, known as DJ Warras, has reignited debate about public safety and immigration in South Africa. In a controversial response, March and March leader Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma has called on President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare a state of emergency and deploy the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) to tackle illegal immigration.
Ngobese-Zuma made her plea via social media, writing:
“Our lives are in danger because of illegal immigrants, and you keep acting as if this is normal. How many more must die for you to get rid of illegal immigrants and foreigners that are criminals? #JusticeForDJWarras.”
The Circumstances of the Murder
DJ Warras was fatally shot on Tuesday, December 16, outside Zambesi House in Johannesburg’s Central Business District. Early reports suggested multiple suspects, but police have clarified that no arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.
Police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed to IOL News:
“There is no suspect taken for questioning or arrested. Investigation is continuing.”
Video footage reportedly shows a short man with dreadlocks approaching Warras and opening fire before fleeing the scene.
Calls for Protest and Public Outcry
Ngobese-Zuma is urging her supporters to mobilize and protest, demanding justice and government accountability. She called for a public demonstration on Friday, December 19, at Durban City Hall’s Church Square, stating:
“Let’s take it to the streets. We demand the government declare a state of emergency on illegal immigration and justice for Warras and all whistleblowers.”
Her remarks have sparked heated debate online. While some South Africans support her call for action, others caution against politicizing the tragedy before the investigation concludes.
Context: March and March Movement
Ngobese-Zuma leads the March and March movement, a group known for its hardline stance against illegal immigration. The organisation has previously attracted criticism for blocking foreign nationals from accessing public services, arguing that resources are overstretched. Government officials have repeatedly condemned these actions.
Was the Killing Targeted?
Public Safety authorities suggest DJ Warras’s murder may have been a targeted hit related to his work reclaiming hijacked buildings.
Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety, Mgcini Tshwaku, told Newzroom Afrika:
“We believe that this was a hit. Building hijackers see his work as stopping the income that was coming to them.”
Warras had obtained five protection orders against individuals who allegedly threatened him prior to his death. Tshwaku added that law enforcement would question those named in the protection orders as part of their ongoing investigation.
A City in Mourning
DJ Warras, 40, was not only a popular radio and television DJ but also a dedicated activist for safe, functional urban spaces. His death has left many in Johannesburg’s CBD and the broader community grappling with both grief and concern over rising urban violence.
As investigations continue, the nation watches closely—debating public safety, immigration, and how to honour the life of a man whose work challenged both criminal networks and systemic neglect.
Source: IOL
Featured Image: X{@AdvoBarryRoux}
